Memorials and Dedications

City of Pinole Memorial Policy

The City of Pinole offers a formal process to honor individuals, groups, or organizations that have made a significant, positive impact on the community. This can be done by naming a portion of existing City property or a new enhancement (such as benches, trees, or playground equipment) in their memory or recognition.

What Can Be Named

Eligible areas include parts of City-owned buildings (e.g., rooms or entryways), public land or natural features (e.g., trails, parks), and new installations or enhancements to existing property. Entire buildings and street signs cannot be named.

How to Apply

Applications may be submitted by residents, business owners, Council Members, or staff to the City Manager’s office. The request must include the name to be honored, the property proposed for naming, and evidence of community support and the individual’s or group’s positive contributions. Drop off completed applications to City Hall, 2131 Pear Street, Second Floor, Pinole, or email to: cityhall@pinole.gov

Review Process

Qualified applications are reviewed by the City Manager and then forwarded to a Council-appointed Ad-Hoc Committee on Memorials, which makes a recommendation to the full City Council. Final decisions rest with the Council.

Guidelines

Names must be appropriate and not overly commercial, duplicative, or controversial. The Council generally requires a two-year waiting period after a person’s death before considering memorialization unless special circumstances exist.

Donations

Applicants may propose a memorial that includes a donated enhancement. Prior to applying, the proposed item (e.g., tree, bench) must be reviewed for cost, compliance, and placement. Accepted donations will be installed and maintained by the City.

Plaque Specifications

Memorial plaques are limited in size and may include only text (no symbols or images). All inscriptions must follow set font and sizing standards.

If you have questions about this policy, please contact the City Manager’s Office (510) 724-9837, or cityhall@pinole.gov.